Ahoy, squirts! Quint here. I can't believe nobody has thought to put a real deal Comic-Con on a boat before, but there's a first time for everything and the smart folks at Fan2Sea will be launching their first voyage in January leaving Tampa for Key West and Cozumel and special guests from Stranger Things (Eleven! Barb!), The Walking Dead (Sasha! Father Gabriel! Rooker!) as well as Marvel and DC royalty (Frank Miller! Palmiotti! Adams!).
I first heard of this Con while I was gathering intel for the upcoming Holiday Gift Guide and I immediately had to know more. How much is it? Surprisingly affordable, with rates starting at $399, which is like hostel prices for cruises. Is there going to be Cosplay? Hell yes. How about panel discussions? Movie screenings? Gambling? Yes, yes and yes.
I had the chance to ask a few questions of Creative Director Stefan Lawrence and he not only responded he also decided to debut the full schedule for those attending this rather unique Con. Here's the interview first and I'll be back right after with the full Con schedule!
Quint: You'd think that combining a cruise with a Comic-Con would have been done at this level before now, the two being kind of like a marriage of chocolate and peanut butter. What do you think makes this such a great combination?
You’d have thought so, right? What we really like about is how it really makes the con experience a vacation – you’re truly leaving the real world behind and immersing yourself in all your favorite geeky stuff. Usually, going to a convention means making all sorts of compromises – on food, on comfort, on your time. On a cruise ship, you can go straight from seeing a panel on Stranger Things, to the pool deck for a burger and a beer, to seeing one of your favorite movies, to taking a class with Harley Quinn illustrator Amanda Conner. You don’t have to wait in line forever. You get to eat great food. When you want to take a break, you’re never more than five minutes from your room. And with only 2000 people on board, you get to skip that claustrophobic Saturday-afternoon-on-the-con-floor feeling. We think it really changes up what people can expect from a convention experience.
Quint: What aspect of the Con experience were you the most excited about bringing to life for Fan2Sea? What single thing are you giddy about your guests getting to experience?
Don’t make me choose! There are so many things that I’m personally geeking out on. We have awesome movie screenings, burlesque performances, cosplay parties, pub quizzes, panels…there’s just so much. But if I had to pick one thing, it would be the After Hours War Stories panel, hosted by Jimmy Palmiotti and Amanda Conner. It’s held in our British pub, and it’s literally just a bull session in a bar, where our panelists will be holding court and telling horror stories from the convention circuit. And then immediately following that, we’re showing Pink Flamingos, because Jimmy & Amanda requested it. I think that’ll just be too weird to miss.
Quint: I like that there's a choose your own adventure aspect to the programming. There's the usual Con stuff (panels, screenings, signings, etc), there's a singles mixer element, there's the typical cruise entertainment and the day at shore excursions you can go on. Do you have a preferred combination of those things for the guests?
I wouldn’t dare tell guests how to spend their day! Guests will be able to pick the things that interest them the most. Our goal has been to offer enough interesting stuff at any given time, so that there’s always something fun to do. We’ve tried to put together a fun mix of entertainment, parties, and activities at our venues all over the ship. Maybe you’re not into going to a party – we have pub quizzes and panels for you. It’s like a kit of parts that guests can use to make the vacation that fits them and their personality. It also makes Fan2Sea the best event for all-purpose geeky families. Everyone can pick and choose which events they want to attend, then meet up by the pool to unwind.
Quint: Will there be a show floor with collectables, etc?
There’s not a show floor in the traditional sense, but we’re partnering with a few specialty vendors that will have booths on board. We’re going to be stocking our gift shop with limited edition items created just for the ship (such as the Sin City Casino items we announced earlier this month), and individual artists, writers and guests will be bringing items for sale as well. It’s definitely one of the quirkier aspects of designing a convention to fit on board a ship, but I think guests will be happy with the items they’ll be able to buy.
Quint: You have some great talent attending. Folks from Stranger Things, Walking Dead, Guardians of the Galaxy and comic book celebrities. I assume it's not too difficult to tempt those bigger name people to do a Con while sailing through paradise. Why'd you go after those specific celebrities/properties?
As we were designing our schedule, we decided early on that it was important to have a really strong comic book talent roster on board. It’s our way of demonstrating that this is a real comic con, and not just a celebrity cruise or a nostalgia cruise. We couldn’t be happier with the people on board! Frank Miller is just so iconic, and then to add to that Gail Simone, Brian Azzarello, Scott Snyder, Greg Capullo, Mark Waid, Art Adams…I mean, we’re just thrilled. We also wanted to have a good mix of film and television in there as well, to really round out our pop culture offerings. We can never have as deep a bench as the land-based conventions, but we wanted our lineup to be a legitimate alternative. Stranger Things was a late-breaking addition to the roster, but we just fell in love the show when it came out this summer. We couldn’t resist having a Barb-b-q. And we know from past experience that Michael Rooker is an absolute blast. He’s a madman.
Quint: Are you planning on doing more of these? If so, would the idea be to have all new talent attending or go to different destinations so each voyage is a different experience?
There are definitely more of these in the future! We’ve had a lot of requests to do a west coast version, so we’re actively looking into that as well. The idea would be to have different lineups with each sailing, so that our fans can come back year after year and have brand-new experiences every time. As pop culture evolves, we’ll evolve as well. We want Fan2Sea to have a special place in the convention season because it really is a different animal. But if you're really interested in the concept, definitely look into booking a cabin for our inaugural year. We've got some big surprises coming that you won't want to miss.
I don't know if being trapped on a boat with Michael Rooker and Frank Miller appeals to you, but it damn well does to me. In fact there's a good chance this crusty seaman will dare to venture back in to the ocean once more and join up with these nuts.
The schedule is pretty packed and this doesn't include the usual cruise activities available like rock climbing, swimming and day trips to Mayan ruins. Check it out:
FAN2SEA SCHEDULE & PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS
JANUARY 19, 2017 – TAMPA
8am-12pm: Passenger Boarding
Port Tampa Bay
Get on board the Fan2Sea Comic Con Cruise in true galactic style! Members of the Tampa Garrison of the 501st Legion will be on hand to assist with security and make sure that everything runs with the efficiency the Empire is known for.
12:30pm: Compulsory Guest Assembly Drill
1:30pm-2:30pm: The Walking Dead Panel
The Pacifica Theater0
What does it to take to survive AMC’s The Walking Dead? We talk to series actors Sonequa Martin-Green (Sasha Williams), Seth Gilliam (Father Gabriel Stokes), Lew Temple (Axel) and Madison Lintz (Sophia Peletier) about their harrowing experiences filming the highest-rated show on television. Hosted by Alexander Zalben.
2:30pm-3:30pm: The Walking Dead Photo Opportunity*
Diamond Club Lounge
Guests will have the opportunity to meet the Walking Dead panelists and have their picture taken with them. Ticket required; limited availability.
3:00pm-4:00am: Movie Marathon: Marvel, Phase 1
Cinema
Swing by our 40-person movie theater to experience the beginnings of the Marvel Cinematic Universe! Catch one of your old favorites or experience every single minute if you’re feeling ambitious. Movies will include: Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Iron Man 2, Thor, Captain America: The First Avenger & The Avengers.
3:30pm-4:30pm: The Walking Dead Panel
Pacifica Theater
See above.
4:30pm-5:30pm: The Walking Dead Cocktail Party*
Diamond Club Lounge
Mix and mingle with the stars of AMC’s The Walking Dead! As part of this exclusive party, you’ll receive an autograph and photo with a star of your choice, as well as drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets required; limited to 50 guests.
5:30pm-7:30pm: Sail Away Party w/ DJ Elliot
Pool Deck
Enjoy a cocktail on the house and wave goodbye to real life! Join your fellow Fan2Sea passengers for drinks and music by the nerdtastic DJ Elliot.
6:00pm: Ship Departs
6:00pm-12:00am: The Game Room presented by Armada Games
Windjammer Café
Enjoy a challenging variety of games, hosted by Armada Games from Tampa, FL. They’ll have everything you need to play a quick session or an extended campaign. Plus, look for pop-up game sessions around the ship. Complete schedule of games, guided sessions and tournaments to be announced soon.
7:00pm-9:00pm: Single Traveler’s Mixer
King & Country Pub
Are you traveling solo? Come meet your fellow adventurers in the King & Country Pub for drinks and conversation. Start your Fan2Sea vacation right by making some new friends!
8:00pm-2:00am: Monster Channel Theater
Conference Center
Hosted by Monster Channel TV, the Monster Channel Theater presents classic and not-so-classic horror movies, forgotten television shows, short films, bizarro civil defense and safety films, movie trailers, and music videos of interest to fans of horror and associated genres.
8:00pm-11:00pm: Karaoke
The Colony Club
Come sing your heart out, or just enjoy the dulcet tones/warblings of your fellow passengers while grabbing a drink at one of theColony Club’s two bars.
9:00pm-10:45pm: Pub Quiz: Spaceships
King & Country Pub
How well do you know your classic spaceships? Show off your knowledge of warp cores, nacelles and hyperdrive motivators to take home the crown while enjoying our traditional British pub.
11:00pm-12:45am: Pub Quiz: Video Games
King & Country Pub
Whether you’re an 8-bit player from back in the day or a hardcore LAN junkie, you’ll find questions here to challenge your gamer cred. Don’t get pwned.
11:00pm-1:00am: Cult Movie: Miami Connection
The Colony Club
Grab a stiff drink and get ready to watch some of the best worst movies of all time with our Cult Movie series!
Miami Connection (1987) dir. Richard Park
Motorcycle ninjas tighten their grip on Florida’s narcotics trade, viciously annihilating anyone who dares move in on their turf. Multi-national martial arts rock band Dragon Sound have had enough, and embark on a roundhouse wreck-wave of crime-crushing justice.
JANUARY 20, 2017 – KEY WEST
10:00am-11:00am: Guardians of the Galaxy Panel
Pacifica Theater
Meet the talented team behind the upcoming Marvel Studios release, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2! Taking the stage will be Sean Gunn (Kraglin), Michael Rooker (Yondu) and Ramsey Avery (Supervising Art Director). They will discuss the creative process behind one of the most anticipated films of 2017 and reveal what it takes to create the uncharted realms of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
10:00am-11:30am: Master Class: Laura Martin – Color Basics & Techniques
Conference Center
Eisner award-winning colorist Laura Martin (Star Wars, X-Men, Planetary) will teach this class for those interested in learning to color for comics. She will share her expertise on equipment, proper posture, and basic color blocking.
11:00am-12:00pm: Guardians of the Galaxy Photo Opportunity*
Diamond Club Lounge
Guests will have the opportunity to meet the Guardians of the Galaxy panelists and have their picture taken with them. Ticket required; limited availability.
12:00am-2:00pm: Introduction to Dungeons & Dragons
Windjammer Café
Have you always wanted to learn more about playing Dungeons & Dragons but never had the opportunity? Film director and Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast Brian Stillman leads this introductory session on the ins and outs of this iconic role-playing game.
11:30am-12:30pm: Harley Quinn Panel
Pacifica Theater
Join fan-favorite creators Amanda Conner & Jimmy Palmiotti as they discuss America’s favorite anti-heroine, Harley Quinn! They’ll discuss her evolving role in the DC universe, how they develop those gonzo story arcs, and what’s in her future.
12:00pm-12:00am: The Game Room presented by Armada Games
Windjammer Café
See above.
12:00pm-1:30pm: Master Class: Adam Kubert – Narrative Art
Conference Center
Comics veteran Adam Kubert (X-Men, Fantastic Four, Superman) will share lessons learned from his multivarious career in the industry, with a particular focus on conveying sequential stories. Don’t miss this rare convention appearance.
12:00pm-3:00am: Movie Marathon: Marvel, Phase 2
Swing by our 40-person movie theater to experience the second chapter of the Marvel Cinematic Universe! Movies will include: Iron Man 3, Thor: The Dark World, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Age of Ultron & Ant-Man.
12:00pm-1:00pm: Comic Book Club: Gail Simone
The Colony Club
Join award-winning comics creator Gail Simone (Birds of Prey, Batgirl, Red Sonja) at our Comic Book Club stage for an hour-long discussion and Q&A about her life and career. Bring your burning questions.
1:00pm-2:00pm: Batman: Legends of the Caped Crusader Panel
Pacifica Theater
Award-winning creators Scott Snyder, Greg Capullo & Tim Sale have created some of the greatest Batman stories in recent memory, including The Court of Owls, Death of the Family, The Long Halloween, and Haunted Knight. This panel will delve into the long-running appeal of the World’s Greatest Detective and the continued relevance of Gotham City to our national psyche. Hosted by Chris Sims, the world’s foremost Batmanologist.
1:30pm-2:30pm: Comic Book Club: Frank Tieri
The Colony Club
Prolific comic book writer Frank Tieri (Iron Man, Wolverine, Weapon X) will swing by the the Comic Book Club stage for an opinionated discussion of his work and the industry in general. Interview with Q&A to follow – bring your questions.
2:00pm-3:30pm: Master Class: Reilly Brown – The Art of Acting
Conference Center
Fan-favorite Reilly Brown (Deadpool, Amazing Spider-Man, Lobo) teaches this class on the art of acting in comics. He’ll explore the various ways the artist can express personality through poses, expression and framing.
2:00pm-5:00pm: Afternoon Pool Party w/ DJ Elliot
Pool Deck
Kick back by the pool while DJ Elliot spins a groovalicious mix of vintage 70’s tunes and galactic funk in honor of Guardians of the Galaxy. Dance-off bro.
3:00pm-4:00pm: Comic Book Club: Mark Waid
The Colony Club
Sit down with legendary writer Mark Waid (Daredevil, Kingdom Come, Princess Leia) for a wide-ranging discussion and Q&A about his 30+ years in the industry. Come prepared with questions.
3:00pm-6:00pm: Artist Alley
StarQuest Disco
Come by Artist Alley to meet your favorite comic book artists & writers! Appearing: Adam Kubert, Chrissie Zullo, Chris Uminga, Joyce Chin & Chris Sims.
3:00pm-4:00pm: Guardians of the Galaxy Panel
Pacifica Theater
See above.
4:00pm-5:30pm: Master Class: Greg Capullo – Layout
Conference Center
Industry superstar Greg Capullo (Batman, Reborn, Spawn) will showcase his creative process from script to finished page in this deep dive on layout development.
4:00pm-5:00pm: Guardians of the Galaxy Mixer*
Diamond Club
Mix and mingle with the stars of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy! As part of this exclusive party, you’ll receive an autograph and photo with a star of your choice, as well as drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Limited to 50 guests. Ticket required; limited availability.
4:30pm-5:30pm: Cosplay Life Drawing
King & Country Pub
Bring your sketchbook and your drawing skills – our talented cosplayers will provide the dramatic superhero poses!
4:30pm-5:30pm: The Joy of Monsters Panel
Pacifica Theater
Monsters! Who doesn’t love monsters? Monster aficionados Art Adams, Joyce Chin, Adam Kubert & Gerry Duggan appear together on stage with Joe Sena of Monster Channel TV to discuss their love for kaiju, dinosaurs, humanoids, dragons, zombies, cosmic Lovecraftian entities and other horrifying beasts.
6:00pm-7:00pm: Podcast: Star Wars Minute
The Colony Club
Alex Robinson & Pete the Retailer host this comedic podcast in which each episode is devoted to a single minute of the Star Wars films. Currently, they’re tackling Star Wars: Episode II: Attack of the Clones.
6:00pm-7:00pm: Live Reading: Curse Words #1
Pacifica Theater
Experience an exclusive live performance of Fan2Sea guest Charles Soule and Ryan Browne’s Curse Words! An all-star cast will act out the dramatic script accompanied by music and sound effects. Curse Words stars a wizard named Wizord who uses his powers in modern-day New York to help people. The twist? He’s actually evil…but trying to go straight. But his past is racing to catch up with him…
6:00pm-7:30pm: Sci-Fi Speed Dating*
Minstrel Dining Room
There’s somebody for everyone! Sci-Fi Speed Dating has been hosting their unique social events around the world, and now they’re helping Fan2Sea guests find love & friendship! Held nightly, Sci-Fi Speed Dating is the casual, no-pressure way to find somebody special. Ticket required.
7:00pm-8:45pm: Pub Quiz (Fantasy)
King & Country Pub
Are you an elven expert? A mage maven? Show off your knowledge of high fantasy fiction, films and television while throwing back pints in our traditional British pub. It’s not the Green Dragon Inn, but it’ll do fine.
7:30pm-9:30pm: Documentary Screening: Back in Time
The Colony Club
Back in Time (2015) dir. Jason Aron
This documentary explores the production, impact, and legacy of the Back to the Future film series, and includes interviews with members of the series' cast and crew, including Robert Zemeckis, Steven Spielberg, Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd, as well as fans of the franchise. Hosted by the Flux Capacitors.
8:00pm-10:00pm: The Great Escape Room Experience – On The Run!*
Windjammer Café
Go on a ship-wide hunt to find clues, solve puzzles and complete your quest! Hosted by The Great Escape Room, the nation’s premier escape room company, this experience will have you scouring the ship from stem to stern, testing your mental limits the entire way! Work together with your teammates and crack the code – are you up to the challenge? Ticket required.
8:00pm-10:00pm: Pool Deck Screening: Raiders of the Lost Ark
Pool Deck
Catch this adventure classic by the pool while sipping vintage cocktails inspired by the film! Introduced by Eric Zala of Raiders! The Story of the Greatest Fan Film Ever Made.
Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) dir. Steven Spielberg
Renowned archeologist and expert in the occult, Dr. Indiana Jones, is hired by the U.S. Government to find the Ark of the Covenant, which is believed to still hold the ten commandments. Unfortunately, agents of Hitler are also after the Ark. Indy, and his ex-flame Marion, escape from various close scrapes in a quest that takes them from Nepal to Cairo. Possibly the best movie ever made.
9:00pm-10:45pm: Pub Quiz (Star Wars)
King & Country Pub
Do you know your Ishi Tib from your Neimoidian? Your YT-1300 from your T-65? Use your powers for knowledge and defense while drinking in our very own cantina, the King & Country Pub. Hosted by Star Wars Minute.
9:00pm-1:00am: Cosplay Ball
Centrum
If you’re into costumes and cosplay, this is the place to see and be seen! We’re throwing the biggest cosplay party on the high seas in the dramatic 5-story Centrum. Put on your most elaborate outfit and dance the night away to live music by the always amazing Flux Capacitors. Hosted by Fan2Sea cosplay ambassadors Danica Rockwood, Kristen Lanae and Kristen Hughey.
10:00pm-12:00am: Cult Movie: The Visitor
The Colony Club
The Visitor (1979) dir. Michael J. Paradise
John Huston stars as an intergalactic warrior who joins a cosmic Christ figure in battle against a demonic 8-year-old girl, and her pet hawk, while the fate of the universe hangs in the balance. Multi-dimensional warfare, pre-adolescent profanity and brutal avian attacks combine to transport the viewer to a state unlike anything they've experienced...somewhere between Hell and the darkest reaches of outer space. Gonzo 70s Italian weirdness ne plus ultra.
11:00pm-12:00am: After Hours War Stories
King & Country Pub
Join a rogue’s gallery of comic book talent at the King & Country Pub to share raw stories from the industry and the convention circuit. Beer will flow and so will the tales in this raucous, informal session.
12:00am-2:00am: Cult Movie: Pink Flamingos
King & Country Pub
Pink Flamingos (1972) dir. John Waters
Sleaze queen Divine lives in a caravan with her mad hippie son Crackers and her 250-pound mother Mama Edie, trying to rest quietly on their laurels as 'the filthiest people alive'. But competition is brewing in the form of Connie and Raymond Marble, who sell heroin to schoolchildren and kidnap and impregnate female hitchhikers, selling the babies to lesbian couples. Finally, they challenge Divine directly, and battle commences. Hosted by Jimmy Palmiotti & Amanda Conner.
12:00am-1:00am: Nerdlesque All-Stars
The Colony Club
It’s just after midnight, and time for the nerdiest, naughtiest burlesque revue you’ve ever seen! Internationally renowned nerdlesque superstars Stella Chuu, Nasty Canasta, Lefty Lucy and Mary Cyn will perform their signature burlesque pop culture parodies of comic books, video games, and more. 18 and over.
JANUARY 21, 2017 – COZUMEL
10:00am-11:30am: Master Class: Laura Martin – Color Storytelling & Theory
Conference Center
Laura Martin teaches this class on the use of color to support story. She’ll also delve into color theory as a tool to develop palettes and further the creative expression of the story.
10:00am-6:00pm: Movie Marathon: The Hobbit Trilogy
Catch all three of Peter Jackson’s latest entries in his Middle-earth film series.
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012) dir. Peter Jackson
A reluctant hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, sets out to the Lonely Mountain with a spirited group of dwarves to reclaim their mountain home - and the gold within it - from the dragon Smaug.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013) dir. Peter Jackson
The dwarves, along with Bilbo Baggins and Gandalf the Grey, continue their quest to reclaim Erebor, their homeland, from Smaug. Bilbo Baggins is in possession of a mysterious and magical ring.
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (2014) dir. Peter Jackson
Bilbo and his company of dwarves are forced to engage in a war against an array of combatants and keep the Lonely Mountain from falling into the hands of a rising darkness.
10:30am-11:30am: Indie Creators Panel
The Colony Club
We all have a creative spark inside us – how do you ignite the fire? Come see our panel of indie creators and hear how they went from fans to creators – and how you can too. Featuring Eric Zala (Raiders of the Lost Ark: The Adaptation), Brian Stillman (Plastic Galaxy), Ryan Silverberg (The Flux Capacitors), and Alex Robinson & Pete the Retailer (Star Wars Minute).
12:00pm-1:00pm: BARB-B-Q with Shannon Purser*
Diamond Club
Join Shannon Purser (Barb from Stranger Things) for an intimate BARB-B-Q lunch! Ticket required; limited availability.
12:00pm-12:00am: The Game Room presented by Armada Games
Windjammer Café
See above.
12:00pm-1:00pm: Cover Art Panel
Pacifica Theater
With the onslaught of variant covers, comic book cover art has evolved into an artform all its own. Join cover art experts Joyce Chin, Art Adams, Clay Mann, Mark Brooks and Phil Noto for a discussion about what makes a cover truly sing.
12:00pm-1:00pm: Creator-Owned Comics Panel
The Colony Club
Creator-driven comics allow their artists and writers to express ideas that are wholly their own. Creators Greg Capullo, Scott Snyder, Charles Soule and Alex Robinson will discuss how creating for themselves differs from working for an established title. Q&A to follow.
12:00pm-1:30pm: Master Class: Amanda Conner – Facial Expressions
Conference Center
Amanda Conner (Harley Quinn, Vampirella) is known for her dramatic and authentic depictions of characters and their emotions. Attendees will learn about the role expressions play in telling a narrative story, and ways to manipulate facial subtleties in order to achieve the desired effect.
12:00pm-3:00pm: Artist Alley 1
StarQuest Disco
Come by Artist Alley to meet your favorite comic book artists & writers! Appearing: Charles Soule, Phil Noto, Mark Brooks & Laura Martin.
1:30pm-2:30pm: The Production Design of Stranger Things
Pacifica Theater
Stranger Things art director Bill Davis will present this fascinating look behind-the-scenes at the smash Netflix series. As art director, he was responsible for recreating that iconic 1980s look. He’ll reveal original concept sketches and show how they evolved into the sets built for production. Q&A to follow.
1:30pm-2:30pm: Comic Book Club: Art Adams
The Colony Club
Superstar comics creator Art Adams (X-Men, Monkeyman and O’Brien, Longshot) will sit down at our Comic Book Club stage for an in-depth discussion and Q&A. Ask him all your burning monster & dinosaur questions here, or forever hold your peace.
2:00pm-3:30pm: Master Class: Alex Robinson – Plot & Character Development
Conference Center
Famed indie comics creator Alex Robinson (Box Office Poison, Our Expanding Universe) is known for his complex characters and intricate plots. In this class, he’ll show how he breaks a story and creates satisfying character arcs that matter.
2:00pm-3:00pm: Stranger Things Photo Opportunity*
Diamond Club
Guests will have the opportunity to meet the Stranger Things panelists and have their picture taken with them. Ticket required; limited availability.
2:00pm-4:00pm: Cards Against Humanity, Writer’s Edition
King & Country Pub
Swing by our pub for an irreverent session of Cards Against Humanity! Your favorite comic book writers will be on hand to write new and horrible things on blank cards for exhibition play.
3:00pm-4:00pm: Stranger Things Panel
Pacifica Theater
The cast of the smash hit Stranger Things reunites onstage! Join Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven), David Harbour (Sheriff Hopper), Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas), Shannon Purser (Barb), Randy Havens (Mr. Clarke), Catherine Dyer (Agent Connie Frazier) and art director Bill Davis as they reveal behind-the-scenes secrets and on-set stories from the show.
3:00pm-6:00pm: Artist Alley 2
StarQuest Disco
Come by Artist Alley to meet your favorite comic book artists & writers! Appearing: Reilly Brown, Gerry Duggan, Scott Koblish & Gail Simone.
4:00pm-5:30pm: Master Class: Charles Soule & Scott Snyder – Writing
Conference Center
Scott Snyder (Batman, American Vampire, Wytches) & Charles Soule (Star Wars, Daredevil, Curse Words) often send each other their scripts to review. In this class, they’ll perform live critiques of each other’s work and highlight the different ways they approach story.
4:00pm-5:00pm: Stranger Things Mixer*
Diamond Club
Mix and mingle with the stars of Netflix’s Stranger Things! As part of this exclusive party, you’ll receive an autograph and photo with a star of your choice, as well as drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Limited to 50 guests.
4:30pm-5:30pm: Podcast: Sailor Business
The Colony Club
Chris Sims hosts this humorous podcast about the classic 90s anime series, Sailor Moon. Each show does a deep dive into one episode at a time. Along the way, Sailor Business tries to figure out what the Sailor Senshi's powers are, whether Luna should have a British accent, and just what is going on with Mamoru's purple pants. With special guests.
4:30pm-5:30pm: Cosplay Life Drawing
King & Country Pub
See above.
5:00pm-6:00pm: Stranger Things Panel
Pacifica Theater
See above.
6:00pm-4:00am: Movie Marathon: The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
Cinema
Peter Jackson’s original Lord of the Rings trilogy masterfully adapts J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy classic. Come see them all in one long exhausting session.
Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) dir. Peter Jackson
A meek Hobbit from the Shire and eight companions set out on a journey to destroy the powerful One Ring and save Middle Earth from the Dark Lord Sauron.
Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002) dir. Peter Jackson
While Frodo and Sam edge closer to Mordor with the help of the shifty Gollum, the divided fellowship makes a stand against Sauron's new ally, Saruman, and his hordes of Isengard.
Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (2003) dir. Peter Jackson
Gandalf and Aragorn lead the World of Men against Sauron's army to draw his gaze from Frodo and Sam as they approach Mount Doom with the One Ring. Also, Orlando Bloom surfs on an oliphaunt.
6:00pm-7:30pm: Master Class: Joyce Chin – Drawing Horror
Conference Center
Cover artist Joyce Chin (Thor, X-Men, Wolverine) has long harbored a love of horror comics. In this terrifying lecture, she’ll discuss the fine art of drawing the unspeakable.
6:00pm-7:00pm: Podcast: Star Wars Minute
The Colony Club
See above.
6:00pm-7:30pm: Sci-Fi Speed Dating
Minstrel Dining Room
See above.
7:00pm-8:45pm: Pub Quiz (Batman)
King & Country Pub
Holy stumpers, Batman! Grab your sidekicks and sharpen those detective skills – you’ll need them to answer these devilishly difficult trivia questions about the Caped Crusader. Hosted by the world’s foremost Batmanologist, Chris Sims.
7:30pm-11:30pm: Documentary Screening: Raiders! The Story of the Greatest Fan Film Ever Made & Raiders of the Lost Ark: The Adaptation
The Colony Club
Eric Zala hosts this very special screening. First, watch the documentary about three 11 year-olds (of which Eric was one) who set out to make a shot-for-shot remake of Raiders of the Lost Ark. Then, watch the full-length adaptation itself! This presentation will also include a Q&A, so bring your questions.
9:00pm-10:45pm: Pub Quiz (Star Trek)
King & Country Pub
Do you trouble with tribbles? Do warp cores make you weak in the knees? Prove your Trekker bonafides with questions tough enough to stump Q. There may not be Romulan ale, and this may not be Ten Forward, but skipping this pub quiz would be highly illogical.
8:00pm-10:00pm: Pool Deck Screening: The Goonies
Pool Deck
The Goonies (1985) dir. Richard Donner
A gang of misfit kids and their families are about to be evicted from their neighborhood, because it’s slated to be turned into a golf course — unless enough money can be raised to stop the development. When the leader of the gang, Mikey, stumbles across an old map leading to the hidden fortune of a pirate named One-Eyed Willy, the Goonies head out on one last adventure to find the treasure and save the day.
10:00pm-2:00am: 80s Party w/ DJ Eliot
StarQuest Disco
Celebrate the 1980s world of Stranger Things with our massive party! Upstairs in the panoramic StarQuest Disco, DJ Elliot will be blasting the biggest hits of the decade. Face Candy SFX will be on hand for radical makeovers.
10:00pm-2:00am: 80s Pool Party w/ the Flux Capacitors
Pool Deck
Our 1980s party continues on the pool deck with the Flux Capacitors playing high-energy covers from the decade of excess! Grab a neon-colored cocktail and party the night away.
11:00pm-12:00am: Adult Comics Panel
King & Country Pub
Amanda Conner & Jimmy Palmiotti host this late-night panel on the fine art of dirty comics. They’ll explore how far is too far…and how far is not far enough. Not for the faint of heart.
12:00am-1:00am: Live Reading: The Pro
King & Country Pub
Following their Adult Comics Panel, Amanda Conner & Jimmy Palmiotti will host this raucous live reading of The Pro – with an audience participation twist.
12:00am-2:00am: Midnight Movie: Roar
The Colony Club
Roar (1981) dir. Noel Marshall
An unprecedented––and wholly unpredictable––action-adventure, Roar follows wildlife preservationist Hank (Noel Marshall) who lives harmoniously alongside a menagerie of over 100 untamed animals, including cheetahs, elephants, lions and tigers on a preservation in the African plains. When his wife and children arrive (real-life wife Tippi Hedren, step-daughter Melanie Griffith, and sons John and Jerry Marshall) for a visit, a long-brewing battle for dominance between the lions erupts and threatens their very lives.
JANUARY 22, 2017 – AT SEA
10:00am-11:30am: Master Class: Chrissie Zullo & Chris Uminga – Defining Your Style
Conference Center
Chrissie Zullo (Vampirella, Betty & Veronica) & Chris Uminga (DC Comics, Marvel, Lucas Arts) have succeeded by creating styles all their own. In this class, they’ll reveal the process they went through to define their singular visions and encourage students to explore doing the same.
10:00am-2:00am: Movie Marathon: Cult Classics
Cinema
We’ll be showing some of funniest, weirdest and grossest films of all time! Catch an old favorite or discover a lost gem. Lineup includes such films as Critters, Amazon Women on the Moon, Lost Boys, They Live, UHF, and more. At 9:00pm, special guest Laura Martin will host a screening of The Big Lebowski because it is one of her favorite movies.
10:00am-11:00am: Frank Miller & The Dark Knight Photo Opportunity*
Diamond Club
Guests will have the opportunity to meet the Frank Miller and his Dark Knight team and have their picture taken with them. Ticket required; limited availability.
11:00am-12:00pm: Frank Miller & The Dark Knight Panel
Pacifica Theater
Comic book legend Frank Miller (The Dark Knight Returns, Sin City, 300) will make a special appearance on the Fan2Sea stage. Miller’s ground-breaking work on Batman: The Dark Knight Returns changed the face of comics forever and redefined Batman for a new generation. Known for his intense, hard-boiled storytelling and gritty noir aesthetic, Frank Miller is one of the most influential artists in the industry today. He’ll be joined by his Dark Knight III: The Master Race collaborators Brian Azzarello, Andy Kubert and Klaus Janson.
11:00am-12:00pm: The Art of Dungeons & Dragons
The Colony Club
Director Brian Stillman (Plastic Galaxy) is working on a new documentary about the spectacular fantasy art of Dungeons & Dragons. In this exclusive presentation, he’ll reveal clips of his work-in-progress film and discuss what makes this genre of art so memorable.
12:00pm-12:00am: The Game Room presented by Armada Games
Windjammer Café
See above.
12:00pm-1:30pm: Master Class: Jimmy Palmiotti & Frank Tieri – Ideation
Conference Center
Creators Jimmy Palmiotti (Harley Quinn, The Pro) and Frank Tieri (Iron Man, Wolverine) know that coming up with an idea isn’t always easy – but there are methods and tricks one can use. Here, they’ll discuss the techniques that work for them, as well as lead a series of exercises to get the creative juices flowing.
12:00pm-3:00pm: Artist Alley 1
StarQuest Disco
Come by Artist Alley to meet your favorite comic book artists & writers! Appearing: Scott Snyder, Greg Capullo, Tim Sale & Clay Mann.
12:30pm-1:30pm: Comic Book Club: Greg Capullo & Scott Snyder
The Colony Club
Creators Greg Capullo & Scott Snyder recently finished a legendary run on Batman. In this in-depth interview, they’ll discuss the caped crusader, the fine art of collaboration and what’s next.
12:30pm-1:30pm: Marvel Star Wars Panel
Pacifica Theater
Star Wars is back! In 2015, Marvel relaunched the Star Wars comics line, and the universe hasn’t been the same since. Panelists Mark Waid, Gerry Duggan, Phil Noto, Laura Martin, Clay Mann, Charles Soule and Mark Brooks will discuss what it’s like to create the galaxy far, far away. Hosted by Jennifer Heddle, senior editor at Lucasfilm.
1:00pm-4:00pm: Cosplay Pool Party w/ The Flux Capacitors
Pool Deck
Come by the pool for the craziest cosplay party of them all! Hosted by our Fan2Sea cosplay ambassadors, there will be bikinis, cocktails and music provided by the amazing Flux Capacitors. The highlight of the party will be the cosplay contest, with over $1500 in prizes to be awarded.
2:00pm-3:00pm: Deadpool Panel
Pacifica Theater
We’ll be talking about everybody’s favorite anti-hero, the merc with a mouth – Deadpool! Creators Gail Simone, Gerry Duggan, Reilly Brown, Mark Brooks, Chris Sims and Scott Koblish gather on stage to talk about what makes this wise-cracking, fourth-wall breaking good-at-being-bad guy tick. Hosted by Emily Whitten.
2:00pm-3:00pm: Frank Miller & The Dark Knight Photo Opportunity*
Diamond Club
See above.
2:30pm-4:30pm: Drink n’ Draw
King & Country Pub
This one’s pretty simple. We’ll provide the paper, pen and pencils; you grab a drink and draw to your heart’s content. Chat with fellow guests and get tips from professional artists.
2:00pm-3:00pm: Comic Book Club: Tim Sale
The Colony Club
Eisner-award-winning artist Tim Sale has created some of the most memorable Batman and Superman stories of all time. He’ll discuss his life, art and career in an intimate interview, followed by a Q&A.
2:00pm-3:30pm: Master Class: Mark Waid – Writing for the Digital Medium
Conference Center
Industry legend Mark Waid (Kingdom Come, Superman) has long been an advocate for digital comics. In this class, he’ll discuss how going digital affects writing, and how to create successful stories for the screen.
3:00pm-6:00pm: Artist Alley 2
StarQuest Disco
Come by Artist Alley to meet your favorite comic book artists & writers! Appearing: Amanda Conner, Jimmy Palmiotti, Frank Tieri & Art Adams.
3:30pm-4:30pm: Frank Miller & The Dark Knight Panel
Pacifica Theater
See above.
3:30pm-4:30pm: Podcast: Hall of Justice
The Colony Club
Meanwhile.... at the Hall of Justice. This is a unique podcast with a Super Hero/Sci-Fi topic flare, but with a certain level of maturity. Seth Everett hosts, and the general idea is if you are old enough to know exactly what the Hall of Justice is, then you are the exact demographic this show is looking for. Special guests to be announced.
4:00pm-5:30pm: Master Class: Mark Brooks – Drawing Women
Conference Center
Mark Brooks (Star Wars, Deadpool) is known for his ability to draw strong, powerful women. In this class, he’ll explore the art of drawing the female form in the comics medium.
5:00pm-6:45pm: Pub Quiz (Comics)
King & Country Pub
Okay, you say. I know everything there is to know about comics. But you’re on a ship, surrounded by comics enthusiasts. Can you fend them all off to claim the mantle of the ultimate comics fan? Test your mettle with this comics-focused pub quiz.
6:00pm-7:30pm: Sci-Fi Speed Dating
Minstrel Dining Room (Top Level)
See above.
6:30pm-7:30pm: Podcast: Star Wars Minute
The Colony Club
See above.
7:00pm-8:45pm: Pub Quiz (Sci-Fi & Horror Movies)
King & Country Pub
Maybe you can name every movie Jamie Lee Curtis has been in. Or rattle off every Star Wars knockoff known to man. But can you do it in a pub? Or will the name of Jason’s 14th victim elude you? Bring your trivia-addled brain to this pub quiz and take home the title of ultimate movie buff.
7:00pm-11:00pm: Dinner & A Movie w/ Frank Miller*
The Chef’s Table
Sit down at the Chef’s Table with Frank Miller and enjoy a five-star gourmet tasting menu. Then, after the film, join Frank Miller for a private screening of Sin City with cocktail service. Your ticket includes an autograph, a photo and a hand-signed sketch. Limited to 13 guests.
8:00pm-12:00am: Karaoke
StarQuest Disco
See above.
8:00pm-12:00am: Wayne Foundation Charity Ball
Minstrel Dining Room
On the final night of Fan2Sea, dress to the nines (black tie encouraged!) and attend the Wayne Foundation Charity Ball in our formal dining room! Enjoy a buffet dinner, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and dance the night way to the Gotham-friendly sounds of DJ Elliot.
8:00pm-10:00pm: The Great Escape Room Experience – On The Run!*
Windjammer Café
See above.
8:00pm-10:00pm: Documentary Screening: Plastic Galaxy
The Colony Club
Plastic Galaxy: The Story of Star Wars Toys (2014) dir. Brian Stillman
When Star Wars landed in theaters, it introduced audiences to a galaxy filled with heroes and villains, robots and space ships, and a dizzying variety of alien life. But when the lights came up, they all disappeared...unless you had all the toys. Through interviews with former Kenner employees, experts, authors, and collectors, Plastic Galaxy looks at the toys' history, their influence, and the fond and fervent feelings they elicit today. Screening followed by Q&A with director Brian Stillman.
8:00pm-12:00am: Pool Deck Double Feature: Jaws & Piranha
Pool Deck
While we’re at sea, catch two of the best underwater creature features – Jaws & Piranha! Enjoy themed cocktails while you lounge on the pool deck (or in the pool, if you dare!) and take in the films on our 20’ movie screen!
Jaws (1975) dir. Steven Spielberg
When a gigantic great white shark begins to menace the small island community of Amity, a police chief, a marine scientist and a grizzled fisherman set out to stop it.
Piranha (1978) dir. Joe Dante
When flesh-eating piranhas are accidentally released into a summer resort's rivers, the guests become their next meal.
9:00pm-3:00am: Movie Screening: The Cornetto Trilogy
King & Country Pub
See Edgar Wright’s Cornetto Trilogy the way it was meant to be seen – in a pub!
Shaun of the Dead (2004) dir. Edgar Wright
There comes a day in every man’s life when he has to get off the couch...and kill some zombies. When flesh-eating zombies are on the hunt for a bite to eat, it’s up to slacker Shaun (Simon Pegg) and his best pal Ed (Nick Frost) to save their friends and family from becoming the next entrée.
Hot Fuzz (2007) dir. Edgar Wright
Exceptional London cop Nicholas Angel (Simon Pegg) is involuntarily transferred to a quaint English village and paired with a witless new partner (Nick Frost). While on the beat, Nicholas suspects a sinister conspiracy is afoot with the residents.
The World’s End (2013) dir. Edgar Wright
20 years after attempting an epic pub crawl, five childhood friends reunite when one of them becomes hellbent on reaching the final pub – The World’s End. As they attempt to reconcile the past and present, they realize the real struggle is for the future, not just their’s but humankind's.
11:00am-12:00am: Nerdlesque All-Stars
The Colony Club
See above.
*Denotes ticketed/limited availability event.
If I do end up on board you better believe I'll be watching Jaws on the deck. I've seen the movie many ways in many different formats, but never actually out on the open ocean.
Maybe I'll see some of you nerds there!
-Eric Vespe
”Quint”
quint@aintitcool.com
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